Ch-ch-ch-change your plans this weekend

New wave and David Bowie fans should prepare for a Major Crush: two epic concerts from popular Portland-based bands in one weekend at the Newport Performing Arts Center.

First up, this Friday, Nov. 8, is Camp Crush, the highly danceable new wave indie pop duo. Inspired by bands like The Cure, Berlin and Blondie, the two seamlessly bridge influences of the past and modern-day pop sounds to create a dynamic, mesmerizing sound. The result is a very ’80s new wave prom vibe that audiences are encouraged to lean into. Seating will be limited to allow room for dancing, and costumes are welcome but not required.

Formed in 2017 by singer-keyboardist Jen Deale and drummer Chris Spicer, Camp Crush launched onto the Northwest music scene with vocal-forward synth-rich pop tunes and dynamic live performances. As described by Happy Mag, “The duo glides through a cinematic brand of indie-pop that is completely endearing and damn-near mesmerizing.”

On Saturday, Nov. 9, the all-femme Bowie tribute band Major Tomboys hits the stage. Founded by lead singer Renée Muzquiz and former keyboardist Lauren Hatch in the summer of 2018, these self-proclaimed Bowie nerds love to dress up in costumes and share their interpretations of his music with those who also long to rock out in their frock coats and bippety boppety hats. Joined by Ruba Tuesday on lead guitar, Sarah FitzGerald on bass, Rachel Brashear on keyboards, Jolie Clausen on drums and Dani Tanzella on saxophone, the group will have you singing along with your favorite tracks before you know it — from “Wham bam, thank you, ma’am” to “Ch-ch-ch-changes.”

The Camp Crush concert begins at 8 pm on Friday, Nov. 8. General admission tickets are $20.

The Major Tomboys concert begins at 7:30 pm on Saturday, Nov. 9. Reserved seat tickets range from $15 to $30. The Newport Performing Arts Center is located at 777 W Olive Street. For more information, go to coastarts.org or call 541-265-2787.